The Bergen outfit have enjoyed a superb return to the top league and still reside in second place. They did well to obtain a 0-0 draw at Sogndal prior to the international break, especially considering the fact they played most of the match with 10 men. They have become a solid away team but it’s here at home where they have a phenomenal record. Their statistics read 9-3-0 and in total Brann have only conceded two goals in front of their own fans so far! This is pretty ridiculous but it just shows how much of a fortress this place actually is. Centre back Bismar Acosta is suspended yet again but everyone else should be available for selection. Brann have had some issues with injuries & suspensions recently, so will be relieved to have mostly a clean bill of health.

Lillestrom preview

LSK obtained a massive victory away against relegation rivals Stabaek last time out (2-1). It snapped a horror run of eight games without a win and puts them back in the hunt to avoid automatic relegation. It is probably beyond them to finish outside of the bottom three now, but they could finish 14th and end up in the relegation playoff facing the side that finishes third in the OBOS-Ligaen. New manager Arne Erlandsen hasn’t got long left to save the club and he won’t be aided by the suspension of midfielder Bonke Innocent. The duo of Marius Lundemo & Mohamed Ofkir are both rated doubtful due to injury and this doesn’t help matters either. Erlandsen is famed for his long ball physical approach to games and this might give them somewhat of a chance again Brann. But this is going to be a really tough test for LSK away at such a difficult location.

Conclusion & betting analysis

Brann have a three point cushion to third placed Odd, so a draw would ensure that they remain in the silver medal spot. But they know this is the sort of match they can ill afford to fail in. Lillestrom aren’t very good and although things have improved for them under a new boss, the extra class of Bran should shine through. LSK are fighting for their lives but Brann are so dominant in home matches, monopolising possession and sometimes they can become impossible to break down. This probably won’t be a blowout win but Brann should pick up the three points. The hosts can be backed on a -1 Asian Handicap around the 2.10 mark and this is my selection. There is probably a higher than normal chance of a push here because Brann have a major habit of winning matches by exactly one goal. But that wouldn’t be the worst outcome and something like a 2-0 or 3-0 win could easily occur.